24/06/2024 The Volkswagen ID Buzz ‘Cargo’ is the van version of the passenger ID Buzz that we love. It is a fresh interpretation of the iconic VW Microbus – but with an electric powertrain. With pricing recently reduced the 2023 Irish Van of the Year now starts from €48,180 (€39,915 excluding VAT and including grants for commercial buyers) – even with this drop, the green vehicle is far from cheap. A comprehensive number of trim grades are available: Cargo, Comfort, Business, executive, Tech and Max… it gets all the toys! All versions push out 204hp and have a 77kWh (net) battery and quote a max range in excess of 400km.
The lack of windows and the split rear doors are the main van/passenger differences to the exterior. The Cargo still is massively cute and appealing, pulling strongly on our love of nostalgia. Sadly Cargo lacks the interior fun factor of the passenger Buzz but that said the body is still disarmingly cute. The front end features a distinctive LED light strip that runs across the width of the vehicle, adding a touch of modernity to the classic design.
Behind the front seats bulkhead, there is a cargo compartment that measuring 3.9 m3. The interior offers a reasonably spacious three-seat cabin but our test van lacked the colourful fun touches that are found in the ID Buzz five-seater. The dashboard design incorporates a large touchscreen display that controls the vehicle’s infotainment system and other functions. In terms of performance, the Volkswagen ID Buzz Cargo Van delivers a smooth and quiet ride thanks to its ID electric powertrain. Based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB), the ID. Buzz Cargo sits on a state-of-the-art electric platform. The battery has a net energy capacity of 77kWh (82 kWh gross), providing a range of up to 424km. Energy efficiency is from 22.2 to 20.4kWh/100 km. Meanwhile, a charging capacity of 170Kw means charging from 5% battery to 80% can be achieved in 30 minutes. ID Buzz cargo is 1,951mm tall and can access most modern multi-storey car parks. It has a maximum payload of 648kg – so builders and other heavy-weight users beware. Lashing rings are found on the floor and rails on the side walls. As with most electric commercial vehicles, the quoted maximum range and reality can be an issue, particularly when carrying heavy loads. VW says Cargo has up to 425km range from a full charge. Best practice would suggest that short urban hops with light loads is the Cargo’s best territory. The electric delivery van’s lane-keeping capabilities and occupant monitoring system are commendable. Buzz Cargo has a Blind Spot Assist system on board. In addition, thanks to a camera system and digital mapping, the vehicle reacts to oncoming traffic when turning and dynamically adapts its speed when driving.
Cost of running the Buzz Cargo versus a conventional diesel van is the main concern that will limit the amount of Cargos you see on Irish roads. Volkswagen Financial Services, has introduced 0% finance on selected models. Commenting on the recent price reduction, Paul Hunt, Brand Director for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in Ireland, said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for Irish businesses to drive more sustainably. Designed from the ground up with innovative cargo space, an integrated workstation, and a host of driver assistance systems, the ID. Buzz Cargo makes for the perfect all-electric commercial vehicle. And now with an ever more affordable ex. VAT price starting from €39,915 inclusive of grants, the ID. Buzz Cargo is the perfect vehicle for Irish commercial vehicle users to now seriously consider the move from diesel to electric power.” While the ID Buzz Cargo offers a good environment for its occupants and a pleasant driving experience overall, there are limitations. Driving range, charging infrastructure, and pricing are the big issues. Overall potential buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and priorities before making a purchase. Michael Sheridan
Note as we write VW has just launched a Long Wheel Base version (4.962m long v 4.712m) of the Buzz in passenger (7 seats) and commercial form. It gets a larger batery with a 86kWh capcity. A new Buzz GTX grade features more power with 340hp.
